From Stephanie King

Monroe

To the Editor:

It is encouraging to see what can be accomplished when lawmakers work together across party lines to support the needs of their constituents. The recent passage of 2025 Wisconsin Act 13 is an example of bipartisan collaboration, informed by the voices of local professionals and community members committed to protecting children.

I would like to express my thanks to Senator Howard Marklein for his leadership on 2025 Wisconsin Act 13, a critical piece of legislation that strengthens the state’s support for Children’s Advocacy Centers (CACs). This act expands funding and resources that directly impact our ability to respond to and prevent child abuse across Wisconsin.

Senator Marklein’s commitment to this legislation goes beyond policy. His compassion and ongoing relationship with the staff of local programs, and with professionals across law enforcement, prosecution, healthcare, mental health, and victim advocacy, demonstrate a deep understanding of the importance of this work. His continued engagement over the last three years reflects not only strong leadership, but an investment in child and public safety. He has taken the time to get to know the nuances and needs of local programming and how it supports both healing and justice for children and families impacted by crime. Senator Markelin’s leadership also included advocacy for increased funding that was included in the state budget for the Child Advocacy Center programming, which will have direct impacts in Green County and across the state as it will ensure abuse prevention and intervention services will remain available.

I would also like to thank Representative Jenna Jacobson for her supportive and thoughtful remarks regarding CACs on the Assembly floor in support of 2025 Wisconsin Act 13. Her words acknowledged the value of CACs and the crucial role programs play in helping children and families heal. I have appreciated her engagement on this critical issue and her desire to engage with social issues impacting Green County’s children and their families.

This legislation represents what is possible when lawmakers put children and community safety first. Child abuse intervention and prevention is not a partisan issue, and the passage of both Act 13 and the increased funding in the state budget with bipartisan support shows what can be achieved when we work together. Because of this effort, children in our communities will have greater access to compassionate, coordinated, and effective care.